Water Basics for your Pooch

By Anthony Holloway

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Dogs need constant access to fresh water. In fact, water is the most important of all nutrients. But, did you know that too much water can cause your dog as much harm as too little?

Here are the water basics for dogs:
1) Water bowls should be cleaned daily to avoid any potentially dangerous bacterial growth. Ceramic is healthier than plastic for your pet’s food and water bowls.

2) The quality of the water is also important. It is not necessary to buy bottled water for your dog. Tap water is drinkable for dogs, just as it is for humans.

Dehydration can be deadly. An animal can loose all of its fat and half of its protein and survive, but only a 10% loss of body water causes serious illness, and a 15% loss could cause death.

TOO MUCH water can cause water toxicity! This is called hyponatremia. Be sure to monitor your dog as he or she drinks after exercising, watching for signs of water toxicity, which include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or loss of appetite.

In either of the two cases, call your vet immediately.

Remember: A hydrated dog is a happy dog!

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